The Man Behind the Microphone: Gene Pitney, the Songwriter and Singer

Gene Pitney: The Singer, the Songs, the Songwriters

by David McGrath

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	48558 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	264 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Gene Pitney was a legendary singer-songwriter whose career spanned over three decades. He was known for his soaring vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and a string of iconic hits that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.

The Early Years

Gene Pitney was born in Hartford, Connecticut, on February 5, 1941. He grew up listening to a wide variety of music, including country, pop, and rhythm and blues. Pitney began playing guitar at a young age and eventually formed his own band, The Twilighters.

In 1961, Pitney signed a recording contract with Musicor Records. His debut single, "I Want a Love I Can See," was a minor hit, but it was his follow-up single, "(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance," that launched his career.

The Hit-Making Machine

Pitney's songwriting skills were evident from the start. He wrote or co-wrote many of his own hits, as well as songs for other artists, including Roy Orbison, Ricky Nelson, and The Everly Brothers.

Some of Pitney's most famous songs include:

• "(The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance"
• "Town Without Pity"
• "Only Love Can Break a Heart"
• "Twenty Four Hours from Tulsa"
• "The Rubber Ball"
• "Looking Through the Eyes of Love"
• "Backstage"

Pitney's songs were characterized by their catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and soaring vocals. He had a unique ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, and his songs continue to be covered by artists around the world.

Collaborations and Influences

Throughout his career, Pitney collaborated with a number of other artists, including Burt Bacharach, Hal David, and Phil Spector. These collaborations often resulted in some of Pitney's most memorable songs.

Pitney was also influenced by a wide range of musical styles, including country, pop, and rock and roll. He was a master of blending different genres to create his own unique sound.

The Later Years

In the later years of his career, Pitney continued to record and perform. He released several albums, including "Pitney '73" and "Pitney Sings the Hits." He also toured extensively, both as a solo artist and with other performers.

Gene Pitney died on April 5, 2006, at the age of 65. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002, and his music continues to be enjoyed by millions of fans around the world.

A Legacy of Timeless Hits

Gene Pitney was one of the most successful and influential singers and songwriters of his era. His songs have been covered by countless artists, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.

Pitney's songs are a testament to his songwriting skills, his vocal prowess, and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. His music will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.

A Song List for the Ages

Here is a list of some of Gene Pitney's most famous songs:

• (The Man Who Shot) Liberty Valance
• Town Without Pity
• Only Love Can Break a Heart
• Twenty Four Hours from Tulsa
• The Rubber Ball
• Looking Through the Eyes of Love
• Backstage

These songs are just a small sample of Gene Pitney's vast and influential catalog. His music continues to be enjoyed by millions of fans around the world, and his legacy as one of the greatest singers and songwriters of all time is secure.

Gene Pitney: The Singer, the Songs, the Songwriters

by David McGrath

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	48558 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	264 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE